Journaling

I have always been a journaler.  I like writing my thoughts down, getting them out of my head, getting rid of the ugly in a safe way.  That is probably why I like to blog, I get to share what is on my mind.  I'm an introvert so it is hard to get those thoughts out of my mouth at times.  Although I have found as I get older some of those thoughts come out of my mouth even when I don't want them to.  James 3 tells us a lot about that tongue.

But I digress, this is about journaling, we will discuss the tongue in another post.  As I was saying, I like to journal.  Right now I have three journals going.  They all have a purpose.  I have my Bible study journal, my creative journal, and my whiner journal.

My Bible Study Journal (the green one):  This journal is where I record what I am gleaning from my Bible study.  It is usually not fancy, just a way to record my thoughts on the passage and anything that the LORD has shown me.

 I have discovered journal art and I would like to add that in as well.  If you are not familiar with it, check out this blog.  I used to doodle in my notes but sometimes life gets in my way and I get boring.  I don't like to be boring so I think I'm going to spice it up a bit.  I sometimes journal in my Bible as well.  There are always notes and insights and what God is speaking to me.  I love looking through my old Bibles and finding all my notes and reading them.  I enjoy looking back and seeing how much I've learned and grown.

My Creative Journal (the blue one):  This is where I keep ideas for projects, designs for projects, plans for my projects, pictures.  I like to keep it handy in case inspiration strikes.  If I don't write it down, I will forget about it.

My Whiner Journal (the floral one):  This is my private journal where I get everything off my chest.  I have found if I don't get the ugly out I get depressed, grumpy, and very hard to live with.  I write my feelings here.  When I'm having a hard time I journal to process what is going on.  I also use it as a sort of prayer journal.  I write out my prayers as I pray them.  This seems to help me focus on God.  These are the journals I destroy after they are full.

Do you journal?  What does it look like?  Do you use art?  Share your techniques and ideas with me, I would love to see them.

Father,
I pray you will continue to guide me as go through YOUR word.  Help me to understand what You want for me.  Father, as I go through this life lead me step by step.  I lift up my readers to you.  Bless them and protect them.

In Jesus Name,
Amen